James L. Seward

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ALBANY, 06/18/13 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today announced final legislative passage of a bill that would protect providers for services for developmentally disabled from state funding cuts.

ALBANY, 06/18/13 – The New York State Senate today passed the “Public Assistance Integrity Act” to crack down on welfare fraud and prohibit welfare recipients from using Cash Assistance for the purchase of cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, lottery tickets or for casino gambling.

ALBANY, 06/12/13 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today announced senate passage of a package of legislation to help New York’s military veterans achieve success in business, employment and education. A bill sponsored by Senator Seward (S.3572) that would exempt veterans organizations from paying taxes on heating fuel was part of the package.

ALBANY, 06/11/13 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today honored Herkimer County HealthNet during the Parks & Trails New York annual award ceremony at the Capitol. Herkimer County HealthNet received the Get Outdoors award for its commitment to developing and maintaining trails and playgrounds throughout the county.

ALBANY, 06/10/13 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today announced senate approval of legislation he sponsored to allow the legislature to eliminate or amend state regulations that overstep their original intent. The bill (S.3462) was part of a bi-partisan senate package aimed at ridding New York State of unnecessary government regulations that inhibit job creation and drive up local property taxes.

ALBANY, 06/05/13 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today announced final legislative approval of a bill he sponsored to increase the amounts of allowable loans under the emergency services loan fund. Senator Seward’s bill (S.3728B) will adjust the loan rates available to account for inflation and help departments with equipment purchases and other necessary upgrades.

ONEONTA, 05/29/13 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today announced his strong support for the proposed plans for Belleayre Resort at Catskill Park. Senator Seward says the planned resort will aid in long-term economic growth for the Catskill region.

“After meeting with local elected officials and hearing from area business owners and residents it is clear to me that the proposed Belleayre Resort at Catskill Park will be a positive development for our region,” said Senator Seward. “I look forward to working with the developers and other key collaborators to advance this plan and move forward in a timely fashion.”

“As someone who represents a host of SUNY schools, I am encouraged by the ‘Tax-Free NY’ initiative and the goal of creating a more business friendly environment for campus communities across the state. A bold and innovative approach like this is needed to revive and advance our economy.

BOVINA CENTER, 05/09/13 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today announced that the 2013-2014 state budget includes, at his insistence, $100,000 to protect New York farmers through continuation of the highly successful New York Rollover Protection System (ROPS) Rebate Program.

“New York farmers face countless daily challenges yet continue to deliver – providing us all with sustenance and fueling our state’s number one industry,” said Senator Seward. “Making certain our farmers have proper safety equipment is crucial and that is why I have strongly supported the ROPS rebate program since its inception.”

ALBANY, 05/08/13 - The New York State Senate today passed legislation to crack down on auto insurance fraud which has led to injuries - even death - for innocent victims and costs hundreds of millions of dollars a year in higher premiums when New Yorkers already pay some of the highest auto insurance rates in the country.

The three bills approved today would significantly cut down on auto insurance scams by increasing penalties for those who commit or assist in the fraud and by giving more flexibility to insurance companies to prevent criminals from getting policies and continuing to commit auto fraud.

ALBANY, 05/07/13 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today honored Rosalie Burgher of Olive as the 2013 Senate “Woman of Distinction” from the 51st senate district at the 16th annual senate Women of Distinction ceremony at the Capitol.

COOPERSTOWN, 04/29/13 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today announced that the state budget includes, at his insistence, $100,000 to continue the state’s participation in National History Day. The announcement coincided with the statewide judging of student projects in Cooperstown.

ALBANY, 04/16/13 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today welcomed high school students from Otsego and Tompkins counties to Albany for the 13th annual Students Inside Albany conference sponsored by the League of Women Voters of New York State Education Foundation.

“The Capitol is a living, breathing classroom and I am pleased to take part in this unique program,” said Senator Seward. “Offering students an inside glimpse at state government is a wonderful way to spark their interest in public service.”

“The YMCA Youth and Government Conference is a terrific hands-on teaching tool to help students hone leadership skills and learn the inner-workings of our government,” said Senator Seward. “Alice Jenkins and her peers are our future leaders. It is great to see their interest in public service and creative vision to improve our community and society.”

ONEONTA, 04/12/13 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today invited local residents to nominate veterans from their community whose service on behalf of our nation designates them worthy of induction into the New York State Veterans’ Hall of Fame.

“The New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame was created to honor and recognize outstanding veterans from the Empire State who have distinguished themselves both in military and civilian life,” said Senator Seward. “Their meritorious service to our nation deserves the special recognition that only a hall of fame can provide, as a fitting expression of our gratitude and admiration.”

ONEONTA, 04/08/13 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today announced he is joining in sponsoring legislation to end pension benefits for elected officials convicted of felonies. Senator Seward is also calling for added state funding to assist in the investigation of government corruption.